In a heartfelt revelation during his recent Netflix special, Hollywood actor Jamie Foxx shared the details of a serious health scare he experienced in April 2023. The star, known for his roles in films such as Django Unchained, disclosed that he suffered a “brain bleed that led to a stroke,” which led to his hospitalization.
Foxx recounted the harrowing experience with the audience during the recording of Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was…, held in Atlanta, the city where he fell ill while working on a film project. He described the day he first noticed something was wrong, explaining that he had a severe headache and requested an aspirin. However, before he could take it, he blacked out, losing consciousness for nearly three weeks.
Initially, Foxx’s family kept the specifics of his medical condition private. His daughter, Corinne Foxx, had only stated that he experienced a “medical complication” without elaborating further. It wasn’t until this special that Foxx opened up about the details of his health crisis.
During the special, Foxx expressed gratitude towards his sister, Deidra Dixon, who played a crucial role in getting him the medical attention he needed. After being sent home by medics following a cortisone injection, Deidra sensed that something was amiss and took him to Piedmont Hospital. It was there that doctors informed him of the brain bleed, stating that immediate intervention was necessary to save his life.
Reflecting on his experience, Foxx shared that the moments leading up to his operation were surreal. He mentioned that, contrary to popular belief, one’s life does not flash before their eyes during such critical moments. Instead, he described the experience as “oddly peaceful” and recalled seeing a tunnel, humorously questioning whether he was heading to the wrong place because of the heat he felt.
Foxx revealed that upon waking up on May 4, 2023, he found himself in a wheelchair, unable to walk and with no memory of the events that had transpired. His initial reaction was one of disbelief, stating, “Jamie Foxx don’t get strokes.” He later underwent rehabilitation in Chicago to regain his strength and mobility.
Throughout his ordeal, Foxx credited his family, particularly his sister and daughter, for their unwavering support. They made a concerted effort to shield him from public view during his recovery, fearing that the media and online community would exploit his condition. Foxx expressed his appreciation for their efforts, stating, “They didn’t want you to see me like this, and I didn’t want you to see me like this.”
As he spoke to the audience, Foxx also addressed the physical challenges he faced post-stroke, including unsteady head movements. He acknowledged that his family was concerned about the potential for memes and negative attention, emphasizing their protective instincts during a vulnerable time.
His health scare came while he was filming Netflix’s Back In Action alongside Cameron Diaz, a project that had to be paused due to his medical emergency. The experience has not only brought him closer to his family but has also given him a new perspective on life and health.
In light of his experience, Foxx took the opportunity to educate the audience about the signs of a stroke, which can include face weakness, arm weakness, and difficulty speaking. He urged viewers to be aware of these symptoms, as timely medical intervention can be life-saving.
Foxx’s journey through this health crisis has been one of resilience and gratitude, showcasing the importance of family support during challenging times. His story serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the need for awareness regarding health issues such as strokes.
